What is the main purpose of Motivational Interviewing as developed by Miller and Rollnick?

The main purpose of Motivational Interviewing, as developed by Miller and Rollnick, is to assist clients who are ambivalent about changing their behavior. This approach is designed to enhance a person's intrinsic motivation to change by exploring and resolving ambivalence. Motivational Interviewing recognizes that many clients may have mixed feelings about change, leading to a lack of commitment or uncertainty about their goals.

The technique involves the therapist guiding the client in a collaborative conversation that enables them to express their thoughts and feelings about the desired change. By fostering a non-judgmental environment, the therapist helps clients articulate their motivations, weigh the pros and cons of their behaviors, and explore their values. This process encourages clients to arrive at their own conclusions about the importance of change and supports them as they navigate their ambivalence.

In contrast, confrontational approaches (as suggested in the first option) can create defensiveness and further entrench denial. Encouraging clients who are already certain about changing their behavior (the second option) is not the primary focus, as Motivational Interviewing is tailored for those experiencing ambivalence. Finally, simply providing direct solutions to problems (the fourth option) contradicts the fundamental principles of this approach, which emphasize collaboration and self-discovery rather than directive